Macron's Mission to Caledonia: A Call for Peace Amid Riots
In the wake of more than ten days of violent unrest in New Caledonia, President Emmanuel Macron has made an unexpected visit to the archipelago, arriving in Nouméa around midnight Paris time. The visit comes as the territory grapples with severe political instability and social disruption.
Emmanuel Macron's primary objective is to facilitate a return to 'peace, calm, and security' through dialogue. His arrival was marked by appeals for swift pacification, following a week marked by riots that resulted in six deaths, including two mobile gendarmes. Additionally, 84 police officers and gendarmes were injured during this period of violence.
The situation on the ground has been particularly volatile, compounded by an 'unprecedented' cyberattack that targeted the archipelago's infrastructure on Wednesday. Adding to the disruption, New Caledonia's international airport will remain closed to commercial flights until Saturday morning, further highlighting the gravity of the crisis.
The nature of the mission that Macron intends to establish remains under wraps. Government spokesperson Prisca Thévenot indicated that while this 'mission' is crucial, its specifics are yet to be determined. This ambiguity has sparked criticism, particularly from the Macronist President of the Southern Province, Sonia Backès, who questions the mission's substantive impact.
Macron's surprise visit has necessitated changes to his and the executive's agenda. The President had been scheduled to lead a national tribute in Caen for two prison officers killed last week during an escape attempt. This ceremony will now be attended by Prime Minister Gabriel Attal instead.
The broader consequences of Macron's visit include potential delays in crucial policy decisions regarding unemployment insurance reform and juvenile justice. Secretary of State Thévenot reassured that restoring order in New Caledonia remains a priority and that the situation, though not fully normalized, appears to be improving.
- Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, who accompanied Macron, emphasized the severity of the situation, noting the high number of casualties among law enforcement personnel. The local government has been working tirelessly with national forces to stabilize the region.
- Observers await further clarification on the mission's scope and how it will address the underlying issues fueling the riots in New Caledonia. Many residents express a need for concrete steps toward restoring peace in the region.
